By Ace Grado / Staff Writer

Missouri Valley College canceled 8 a.m. classes on April 27 after a tornado caused damage in the nearby Slater area.

The storm moved through central Missouri shortly after 8 a.m., producing damage in Slater, about 20 miles northeast of Marshall. No damage has been reported among Missouri Valley College commuter students in the surrounding communities.

Nearby towns, including Gilliam, Glasgow and Armstrong, also reported downed trees, debris and property damage.

Slater resident Harley Dohrman said the storm developed quickly.

“It happened pretty fast. The sirens went off and I was running out the door to my in-laws to take shelter,” he said. “After taking cover for about 30 minutes, I went out to look at the damage, and it was horrific.”

In Marshall, residents reported dark skies, lightning and strong winds, though no major damage was confirmed.

“It was very dark, and the sky looked like night,” Marshall resident Jennifer Sandoval said. “There was lightning and thunder, and the rain became heavier over time.”

Out of caution, the college issued 8 a.m. class cancellations along with delayed start times for the remainder of the morning schedule.

As conditions continue to improve, residents and students across the area are beginning cleanup and assessing the effects of the storm.